Gov't targets 30K swab tests by May 30

The government targets a daily swab test rate of 30,000 persons by the end of May in a bid to contain the spread of COVID-19, said Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) chief and national testing czar Vince Dizon. 

“Ngayon, mayroon na tayong 12,000 capacity per day. Kampante tayo dito sa tulong ng Department of Health (DOH), maabot natin ang 30,000 capacity test per day sa May 30, (Currently we have 12,000 capacity a day. We are confident that with the help of the DOH we can reach 30,000 by May 30)” he said.  

Dizon announced the opening of the mega swabbing center at the Palacio de Manila along Roxas Boulevard on May 8. The facility can test 5,000 patients per day.

The government had already converted the Philippine Arena in Bulacan and Enderun College in Taguig City into mega swabbing centers in Metro Manila. The Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City is also set to open as a swabbing center this week.

Dizon said the positive response of the private sector will help them increase testing capacity in the mega swabbing centers and flatten the curve of COVID-19 cases.

The Philippines had more than 10,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases as of Thursday, May 7. 

Dizon meanwhile asked private schools with nursing and other medical-related courses to encourage their students to volunteer, citing the need for more people to man the mega swabbing centers. 

Dizon assured volunteers of adequate compensation and protection while working in the facilities. Interested individuals may call the DOH or the government’s hotline 8888.